Preferred self-study spaces of English Studies students at the School of Foreign Languages

Abstract

"This research investigated the preferred self-study spaces of English Studies students (ESSs) at the School of Foreign Languages (SFL) at a Vietnamese university (VNU). Based on observations and theories, many similar-themed studies in the field of education have been conducted in other countries. However, a gap remains because very little research on this topic has been undertaken in the Vietnamese context in general and on ESSs in particular. The researcher chose the topic to fill this gap and contribute to expanding the knowledge base of both SFL and the international community. The study looked at the factors affecting students' decisions on their choice of a study space. This research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative data from a questionnaire and qualitative data from interviews to answer the research questions. In total, 154 questionnaires were collected, and 9 were invited for semi-structured interviews. The research found that students prefer quiet, welldesigned spaces with a sense of comfort and plenty of ICT utilities like power outlets and TVs, whether studying alone or in a group. In addition, the majority of ESSs prefer self-study activities at home or in dorms, while others prefer group study activities at cafes and on the SFL campus. However, there are certain issues with existing oncampus spaces that need to be resolved if they are to become the ideal self-study spaces for ESSs. By identifying and suggesting improvements for the standard of self-study areas on the campus, the research expects to enhance SFL's educational program and overall student learning experience."